2017 Construction Trends

Here are 5 Commercial Construction Trends to watch in 2017. For the full article from Construct Connect, click here.

1. Improved Growth

2. Technology

3. Modular Construction

4. Labor Shortages

5. Safer Jobsites

Stay Warm!

Like it or not, winter is here and that brings cold, windy and snowy weather. Despite how cold or snowy it is, many construction projects still need to continue. Here are some tips for staying warm on a construction site in winter, from Construction World. For the full article, click here.

1. Have a warm, dry break area
2. Wear multiple layers of clothing
3. Thermal and/or Wool clothing are advised
4. Wear protective gloves
5. Use pocket or hand warmers
6. Wear insulated boots
7. Wear thick or layered socks
8. Keep head and neck covered
9. Keep spare clothing handy
10. Wear protective eyewear 

Shipyard Project Completion

We're happy to announce the completion of a renovation project at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard.

The initiative took place in the paint-blasting facility, also known as building 284. 

The scope-of-work encompassed select interior demolition, reconstruction of floors and utilities, lighting upgrades, the relocation of steam water and sewer systems, and the construction of a complete office building within a large existing warehouse.  The new space will accommodate the relocation of personnel from another building, at the shipyard, which was scheduled for demolition.

Read full press release... 

Fun Fact!

Happy Anniversary to the Burj Khalifa skyscraper!

·         The tallest structure in the world opened on January 4, 2010 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

·         It’s held the world record since 2009 and stands 2,722 ft tall. That’s just over a 1/2 mile tall!

·         Construction took 6 years

·         Estimated total cost for the project was $1.5 billion

·         The building contains

o   57 elevators, 8 escalators and 2,909 stairs from the ground floor to the 160^th floor

o   24,348 windows

o   3,331,100 square feet

State of NH Renovation Project

We're happy to announce that we have been selected to perform a pharmacy and miscellaneous renovation project at New Hampshire Hospital in Concord. 

The project will involve the complete fit-up of a new pharmacy, the renovation of the HR office and meeting space, the construction of new A.D.A. bathrooms and a new gift shop within the 36 Clinton Street facility. 

The scope-of-work will include interior demolition; new walls, floors, and ceilings; interior finishes; and electrical, mechanical and HVAC system upgrades.

Read press release... 

Safe Snow Removal Tips

With winter upon us and snow in the forecast again, here are some Snow Blower Safety Tips.

• Dress properly to not only keep yourself warm but also safe. 
• Wear boots with adequate traction.
• Wear ear and eye protection.
• Avoid long scarves or other loose clothing that could become caught in the snow blower's moving parts.

• Before you begin -
• Familiarize yourself with the manual and how to operate the snow blower, if new to using it.
• Inspect the area for items that may be in your path like tree branches.
• Check the snow blower's oil and gas level before each use.
• Always start the machine outside.

• While clearing snow -
• Watch where you're aiming the snow and avoid directing it towards people, cars, windows, lampposts or other items that could be damaged by debris. 
• Keep your hands and feet away from all moving parts.
• Never override automatic shutoff features.
• Operate the blower at a speed you're comfortable keeping up with. 
• Never reach into the blower shoot with your hands for any reason, even when the machine is off. Use a stick to loosen debris or packed snow/ice. 

•  Proper maintenance - 
• Check the spark plug at the start of the season and replace if necessary.
• Maintain proper tire pressure for best handling.
• Run all of the gas out of the snow blower or drain it at the end of the season. 

OSHA Injury & Illness Reporting

Recent provisions to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)’s record keeping rule will take effect on January 1, 2017. Are you aware of what will change?